EMPLOYMENT FIGURES CAUTIOUSLY WELCOMED BY LOCAL MSP

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey has praised the most recent labour market statistics which shows that unemployment in Scotland is at a record low.

Scotland’s unemployment rate is down to 3.6%, lower than the UK rate of 4.0%, and the number of people unemployed in Scotland has now fallen below 100,000 for the first time on record.

The rate of women in employment is 71.5%, higher than the UK rate of 71.2%, and 60.7% for young people, higher than the UK rate of 56.0%.

Local MSP Clare Haughey has welcomed the figures but warned of the threat of local job losses due to Brexit.

Commenting, Clare Haughey MSP said:

“Unfortunately, we have seen substantial job losses locally over the last year, particularly through the devastating closure of the 2 Sisters factory in Cambuslang, therefore we must continue to do all we can to support people into good quality, well-paid jobs.

“Scotland’s new employment figures are certainly encouraging, and it is testament to our resilient economy, however our jobs market is set to face severe challenges due to Brexit.

“Recent research has shown that in the case of a no-deal Brexit, 750 people living in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency could potentially lose their jobs.

“To protect our economy and jobs market, the UK Government must now take urgent steps to rule out a no-deal Brexit, extend the Article 50 process and hold a second referendum on EU membership.”